A nice example of the Type 218 Porsche tractor having enjoyed an earlier restoration
Having only registered around 5,300 hours use in its 64-year history
Complete with versatile rear box fitted to the hydraulic lift system
Belgium registration
The Appeal
Porsche had been making tractors since 1937 in association with German company Allgaier GMBH and Austrian company Hofherr Schrantz. In 1956, however, they took over all production and their models were henceforth known as Porsche-Diesel. Their tractors all featured air-cooled engines, which simplified maintenance, and came in 1, 2, 3 and four cylinder configurations.
Our model, being a “Standard” model is powered by a two-cylinder, 1,644cc engine. It’s a great looking example which presents very well but is no garage-queen. The ideal condition for a tractor. It’s a low use tractor and will lend itself to a range of uses with its rear, hydraulically mounted rear box.
The History and Paperwork
Our tractor was understood to have been first registered on 12th January 1959
The tractor is understood to be Belgian registered currently
Little is known about our tractor’s former life or owners
What we do know is that the tractor has been used for a mere 5,300 hours
This represents only 82 hours a year, on average
The tractor is thought to have undergone a restoration at some point in its past
Little paperwork is on hand with the tractor
An original Belgian registration document is understood to be on hand
The Interior
Our example enjoys an enviable level of originality inside and out
Understandably a highly utilitarian driver environment on our tractor
The driver is faced by the original, machined aluminium “guilloche” instrument cluster
This is populated with various, original VDO gauges, lights and buttons
A large, high-mounted Bakelite steering wheel appears to be original
The pressed steel seat is finished in body-coloured paint
Various levers control the functions of the tractor
Diamond plated steel floors allow easy operation of the ribbed pedals
A hinged and lockable tool locker is located under the instrument panel
Our example is interesting in having an additional bench seat fitted to the mud guard
A rear, wooden sided box is mounted to the three-point hydraulic lifting system
This lends itself to a number of uses and allows the box to be height adjusted accordingly
The Exterior
Our Porsche tractor presents in the signature red of the brand
This has clearly been re-applied at some point in the past but still looks fresh
The air-cooled configuration of these tractors allows for a curved, radiator free bonnet
Our tractor’s bonnet is complete with original chromed badges and central trim piece
The bonnet removes totally to allow easy access to the engine
The tractor includes an electrical system with head and tail lights fitted
A front towing eye is also present
The rear box is steel framed in red with roughhewn board inserts
The pressed steel wheels are finished in white paintwork with the hubs in red
Tyres both front and back appear to be quite new and retain plenty of tread
The Mechanics
This being a Standard model, our tractor features a twin-cylinder engine
This is an air-cooled unit with a cubic capacity of 1,644cc
This was originally rated at around 28hp
This would allow our tractor to cruise at around 15mph in top
Porsche tractors were prized for their reliability
They were also considered to be easily maintained on the farm
This was thanks to the simplicity of their air-cooled design
There was no vulnerable cooling system to worry about
The presentation of the engine bay appears very good
Access is optimised by an easily removeable bonnet
Our tractor is reported to be in a good mechanical condition
It is understood to operate as expected with only one issue reported
This is a mis-behaving battery, and a new item will be fitted before sale
Summary
Much like Lamborghini, Porsche aren’t immediately associated with their farming implements. Unlike Lamborghini, however, Porsche ended their tractor production in 1963 making good survivors all the more rare and sought after. Their original appeal related to their reliability and ease of maintenance is perhaps even more apposite today making for a realistic ownership prospect for the enthusiast or collector.
Our example has a number of interesting and rarer features, too. These include the auxiliary bench seat, lighting system and hydraulic, three-point mounting system for the rear box. With that distinctive, curved fronted bonnet, these tractors look pretty good, too. This one has really only been run for around two-working weeks per year, too, so has plenty of life, work and enjoyment left to offer.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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